YouTube TV has revolutionized the way we watch live television, offering a unique blend of traditional TV and modern streaming capabilities. As a popular streaming service, YouTube TV is available on various devices, including Roku. However, the question remains: is YouTube TV free on Roku? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of YouTube TV’s pricing, features, and availability on Roku, helping you make an informed decision about your streaming options.
What is YouTube TV?
Before we dive into the specifics of YouTube TV on Roku, let’s take a brief look at what YouTube TV is and what it offers. YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service that provides access to a wide range of TV channels, including local networks, sports, news, and entertainment. With YouTube TV, you can watch live TV, record shows, and access on-demand content from various networks.
YouTube TV offers a robust channel lineup, including:
- Local networks: ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and PBS
- Sports: ESPN, FOX Sports, NBC Sports, and more
- News: CNN, MSNBC, FOX News, and more
- Entertainment: AMC, Bravo, FX, and more
In addition to its channel lineup, YouTube TV also offers a range of features, including:
- Cloud DVR: Record shows and movies for later viewing
- Multi-device support: Watch on multiple devices at the same time
- Personalized recommendations: Get tailored suggestions based on your viewing habits
Is YouTube TV Free on Roku?
Now, let’s address the question at hand: is YouTube TV free on Roku? Unfortunately, the answer is no. YouTube TV is a paid service, and you’ll need to subscribe to access its content on Roku or any other device.
YouTube TV offers a single plan, which costs $64.99 per month. This plan includes access to its full channel lineup, cloud DVR, and multi-device support. You can also add premium networks, such as HBO or Showtime, for an additional fee.
While YouTube TV isn’t free on Roku, you can sign up for a free trial to test the service before committing to a paid subscription. The free trial period is typically 5 days, giving you a chance to explore YouTube TV’s features and channel lineup before deciding whether to subscribe.
How to Get YouTube TV on Roku
If you’re interested in subscribing to YouTube TV on Roku, here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Prerequisites
- A Roku device (Roku 3 or later)
- A YouTube TV subscription (sign up on the YouTube TV website)
- A stable internet connection
Adding YouTube TV to Roku
- Go to the Roku Channel Store on your Roku device.
- Search for “YouTube TV” using the search bar.
- Select the YouTube TV channel from the search results.
- Click “Add Channel” to add YouTube TV to your Roku device.
- Launch the YouTube TV channel on your Roku device.
- Sign in with your YouTube TV account credentials.
YouTube TV vs. Other Streaming Services on Roku
YouTube TV is just one of many streaming services available on Roku. Here’s a brief comparison of YouTube TV with other popular streaming services on Roku:
- Sling TV: Sling TV is a live TV streaming service that offers a range of channels, including ESPN, CNN, and HGTV. Sling TV’s pricing starts at $30 per month, making it a more affordable option than YouTube TV.
- Hulu with Live TV: Hulu with Live TV is a live TV streaming service that offers a range of channels, including local networks, sports, and news. Hulu with Live TV’s pricing starts at $64.99 per month, making it a comparable option to YouTube TV.
- AT&T TV Now: AT&T TV Now is a live TV streaming service that offers a range of channels, including local networks, sports, and news. AT&T TV Now’s pricing starts at $50 per month, making it a more affordable option than YouTube TV.
Conclusion
While YouTube TV isn’t free on Roku, it’s a robust streaming service that offers a wide range of TV channels, cloud DVR, and multi-device support. With a single plan priced at $64.99 per month, YouTube TV is a comparable option to other live TV streaming services on Roku. If you’re looking for a streaming service that offers a traditional TV experience with modern streaming capabilities, YouTube TV is definitely worth considering.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily add YouTube TV to your Roku device and start streaming live TV today.
Is YouTube TV free on Roku?
YouTube TV is not entirely free on Roku. While you can download the YouTube TV app on your Roku device at no cost, you will need to subscribe to the service to access its content. YouTube TV offers a free trial period, after which you will be charged a monthly fee. The subscription cost may vary depending on the plan you choose and any add-ons you select.
To get started with YouTube TV on Roku, you will need to create an account and sign up for the service on the YouTube TV website. Once you have subscribed, you can download the app on your Roku device and start streaming live TV. You can also access YouTube TV on other devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs, using the same account credentials.
What channels are available on YouTube TV?
YouTube TV offers a wide range of channels, including local networks like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC, as well as popular cable channels like ESPN, CNN, and HGTV. The service also includes access to YouTube Originals, which are exclusive shows and movies produced by YouTube. Additionally, you can add premium channels like HBO, Showtime, and Starz to your subscription for an extra fee.
The channel lineup on YouTube TV may vary depending on your location, so you may not have access to all channels in your area. However, the service offers a robust selection of channels, making it a great option for cord-cutters who want to stream live TV without the need for traditional cable or satellite TV. You can check the YouTube TV website to see which channels are available in your area.
Can I record shows on YouTube TV?
Yes, YouTube TV allows you to record shows and movies using its cloud DVR feature. This feature is included with your subscription, and you can record as many shows as you want, with no storage limits. Your recordings will be stored in the cloud, and you can access them from any device with the YouTube TV app.
To record a show on YouTube TV, simply click the “Record” button on the show’s page or while watching live TV. You can also set up series recordings, which will automatically record new episodes of your favorite shows. Your recordings will be available for nine months, after which they will be deleted.
Is YouTube TV available on all Roku devices?
YouTube TV is available on most Roku devices, including Roku streaming players, Roku TVs, and Roku smart soundbars. However, the service may not be available on older Roku devices or devices with limited storage capacity. You can check the YouTube TV website to see if your Roku device is compatible with the service.
If you have an older Roku device, you may need to upgrade to a newer model to access YouTube TV. Additionally, you will need to ensure that your Roku device is running the latest software to access the YouTube TV app. You can check for software updates on your Roku device by going to the Settings menu.
Can I watch YouTube TV on multiple devices at the same time?
Yes, YouTube TV allows you to watch on multiple devices at the same time. With a standard subscription, you can stream on up to three devices simultaneously. This means you can watch live TV on your Roku device, while also streaming on your smartphone or tablet.
If you need to stream on more than three devices at the same time, you can upgrade to the YouTube TV “Add-on” package, which allows for unlimited simultaneous streams. This package also includes additional features, such as the ability to create up to six individual profiles and access to 4K Ultra HD content.
How do I cancel my YouTube TV subscription?
To cancel your YouTube TV subscription, you will need to go to the YouTube TV website and sign in to your account. From there, you can click on the “Settings” icon and select “Membership” from the dropdown menu. Then, click on “Deactivate membership” and follow the prompts to confirm your cancellation.
If you cancel your subscription, you will still have access to YouTube TV until the end of your billing cycle. After that, your subscription will be terminated, and you will no longer be able to access the service. You can also pause your subscription instead of canceling, which will allow you to restart your subscription at a later date without losing your settings and preferences.
Is YouTube TV a good alternative to traditional cable TV?
Yes, YouTube TV can be a good alternative to traditional cable TV, depending on your viewing habits and preferences. The service offers a wide range of channels, including local networks and popular cable channels, as well as access to YouTube Originals. Additionally, YouTube TV is often cheaper than traditional cable TV, with a lower monthly fee and no contracts or equipment rental fees.
However, YouTube TV may not be the best option for everyone. For example, if you want to watch a specific channel that is not available on YouTube TV, you may need to consider a different streaming service or traditional cable TV. Additionally, YouTube TV’s channel lineup may vary depending on your location, so you may not have access to all channels in your area.